The company is refusing to provide affordable health care and sick leave to the Teamsters Local 727-represented workers, who transport disabled and elderly passengers throughout the Chicago area.

"Management's intentions are clear: When the Affordable Care Act goes through on Jan. 1, 2014, the company will provide the minimum health care coverage at the maximum cost to their dedicated employees," said John Coli Jr., President of Teamsters Local 727. "The union is concerned for our members and for the most vulnerable residents of Cook County. Uninsured, under-compensated drivers that are forced to work when they are sick put the public at risk."

"The company has forced these drivers to prepare for a work stoppage so our members can protect the public, protect the disabled and elderly, and protect themselves," Coli said. "The union deeply regrets the massive inconvenience this could create, but the company has given our members no other choice."

The next negotiation meeting is scheduled for June 10 — the date the contract extension for about 150 drivers expires.

Teamsters Local 727 represents more than 6,800 hardworking men and women across the Chicago area.